American Journal of Infection Control: Science Into Practice

Can artificial intelligence transform the way healthcare systems detect surgical site infections? Join us for a special episode of AJIC: Science Into Practice featuring our first international guest, Dr. Salma Abbas from the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital and Research Centre in Lahore, Pakistan, as we explore innovative research comparing five large language models with traditional SSI surveillance methods. Learn how AI-driven tools demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy and showed promise in supporting infection prevention efforts by reducing the burden of manual chart review while improving the efficiency and scalability of surveillance. From the future of AI in infection prevention to the importance of global innovation in healthcare epidemiology, tune in for a conversation on how this work from Pakistan could help shape the next generation of SSI surveillance worldwide. With special guest: Salma Abbas, MD, MPH, Infectious Diseases and Internal Medicine Physician, Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital & Research Centre

Join Nicki and Jess as they dive into the journey of Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infections as patients move between hospitals and Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs). They're joined by special guests Kelly, Glenn, and Cory, who help unpack insights from a massive U.S. study of over 86,000 hospitalizations. Together, they explore why so many patients are discharged to SNFs after a C. diff infection, why those coming from SNFs face higher mortality, longer hospital stays, and higher costs, and what this all means for care coordination. Additionally, they break down the stats, discuss the real-world implications, and explain how hospitals and SNFs can work together to improve outcomes for older adults. Tune in for a lively, informative conversation about the challenges and opportunities of navigating care transitions after C. diff. With special guests: Kelly R Reveles, PharmD, PhD, Associate Professor, The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, Glenn S Tillotson, PhD, Partner, GST Micro, and Cory Evans, OTR/L, CEO, Clinware Solutions, Inc.

Have you ever tackled a complex job without a manual? In this episode, we dive into the reality of infection prevention training and explore how variability in orientation impacts CIC preparedness among infection preventionists in Texas. The conversation highlights a heavy reliance on on-the-job training, limited use of standardized onboarding tools, and significant disparities in certification, particularly among rural and non-acute care professionals. Join hosts Nicki and Jess as they unpack why structured resources like the APIC Novice Roadmap and APIC Text matter. We also hear key insights from Dr. Kayla Ruch, who shares firsthand experiences and actionable solutions to strengthen training pathways, improve CIC readiness, and support a more resilient infection prevention workforce. With special guest: Kayla Ruch, PhD, MPH, CPH, HACP, CIC, Senior Instructional Developer for Infection Prevention and Control, Texas Epidemic Public Health Institute (TEPHI)

Can benchmarking data actually improve antibiotic prescribing for kids? In this episode of AJIC: Science into Practice, hosts Nicki and Jess talk with Dr. Rana El Feghaly and Dr. Matthew Kronman about how collaborative reporting, smart guidelines, and EMR nudges help reduce unnecessary prescriptions. Hear how 22 institutions are reshaping outpatient stewardship with one smarter antibiotic choice at a time. With special guests: Rana El Feghaly, MD, MSCI, CPHQ, Pediatric Infectious Diseases Physician, Infectious Diseases Clinical Director, Pediatric Department Director of Quality and Safety, Children's Mercy Kansas City Matthew P. Kronman, MD, MSCE, Professor of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Associate Vice Chair for Education in the Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington

Why do infection preventionists stay or walk away? In this episode, hosts Nicki and Jess sit down with guests Dr. Sara Reese and Albert Shackelford to unpack new data on retention and attrition in the field of Infection Prevention (IP). From burnout and workload pressures to flexible schedules and opportunities for growth, they explore the factors shaping career decisions for infection preventionists today. Plus, get a sneak peek at even more analyzed data coming soon. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation filled with data, lived experiences, and practical strategies that every healthcare leader can use to support and sustain the IP workforce. With special guests: Sara Reese, PhD, MPH, CIC, FAPIC, Director of Research for the Center of Research, Practice, and Innovation, APIC and Albert Shackelford, MPH, Public Health Professional and Active-Duty Sailor

What really happens when you flush the toilet? In this episode, environmental microbiologist Dr. Charles Gerba reveals the science behind aerosolized germs, viral cross-contamination, and the surprising role toilet flushing plays in spreading pathogens like norovirus. Discover how air sanitizer sprays can reduce airborne and surface contamination and what that means for infection prevention. If you've ever used a public restroom, this is one episode you don't want to miss. With special guest: Charles Gerba, PhD, University of Arizona

Are you curious how infection preventionists are shaping the future of their field? Tune into this episode on the APIC 2025 MegaSurvey. Learn about the MegaSurvey, why it matters, and how it's evolved. Explore how the findings may influence staffing models, compensation trends, emerging technologies, and more. Most importantly, discover how your voice can shape the tools, standards, and career pathways supporting your work. Join the conversation and claim your seat at the table! With special guests: Rebecca (Becca) Crapanzano-Sigafoos, DrPH, MPH, CIC, FAPIC, APIC, Executive Director of the Center for Research, Practice, and Innovation and Sara Reese, PhD, MPH, CIC, FAPIC, APIC, Director of Research

How can nursing homes stop the spread of deadly infections without isolating residents? In this episode, the hosts, Jess and Nicki, dive into Enhanced Barrier Precautions (EBP) with experts Dr. Mary-Claire Roghmann and Stephanie Mayoryk. They explore real-world strategies for implementing EBP, overcoming staff challenges, and balancing infection control with resident quality of life. Don't miss this insightful discussion on protecting both patients and healthcare workers! With special guests: Stephaie Mayoryk, BSN, President and Infection Prevention Consultant, Mayoryk Consulting Services LLC and Mary-Claire Roghmann, MD, MS, Professor, Infectious Disease Physician, and Hospital Epidemiologist, University of Maryland School of Medicine

How can we revolutionize infection prevention training in healthcare? Dive into this insightful episode as Dr. Terri Rebmann and Dr. Ashley Hughes explore game-changing techniques like simulation-based learning, just-in-time training, and empowering mentorship. Discover free, expert-developed tools from CDC's Project Firstline and learn practical tips to improve patient safety and frontline worker readiness. Tune in for laughs, learning, and lifesaving insights! With special guests: Terri Rebmann, PhD, RN, CIC, FAPIC, Divisional Dean, Director of the George Mason University School of Nursing and Ashley Hughes, Ph.D., M.S.,Associate Professor and Research Informaticist at Case Western Reserve University's School of Medicine at MetroHealth

In this episode, the guests delve into the outstanding work of the Washington State Department of Health in infection prevention, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Featuring healthcare experts like Melissa Feskin, Sarah Podczervinski, and Lisa Hannah, the discussion revolves around connecting healthcare systems to necessary resources, implementing robust education strategies, and sharing best practices amidst the chaos of the pandemic. The focus on proactive measures rather than reactive responses validates their efforts in handling emergencies and preventing more significant complications. With special guests: Melissa Feskin, MPH, Infection Prevention and Control Epidemiologist, Washington State Health Department of Health's Healthcare-Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance Section Lisa Hannah, RN, BS, CIC, CDIPC, Infection Prevention Team Supervisor, Washington State Health Department of Health's Healthcare-Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance Section Sara Podczervinski, RN, MPH, DNP, CIC, Healthcare-Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance Section Manager, Washington State Department of Health

In this fascinating AJIC Science Into Practice episode, hosts Nikki and Jessica explore the crucial topic of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) with guest Dr. Carolyn Chu, Chief Clinical Officer of the National Clinician Consultation Center. They discuss the PEP line, a teleconsultation service supporting healthcare providers who manage exposures to bloodborne pathogens. The trio delves into the intricacies of PEP, the delay in its initiation, managing various exposures, and ensuring healthcare workers, particularly in urgent care, receive appropriate training and preparation to handle exposure properly and safely. With special guest: Carolyn Chu, MD, MSc, FAAFP, AAHIVS, Chief Clinical Officer/Principal Investigator of the National Clinician Consultation Center

In the podcast, guests Dr. Cynthia Lakon and Dr. John Hipp discuss their research on the socio-spatial health disparities during the COVID-19 pandemic in US skilled nursing facilities. They discuss the factors that influence the pervasiveness of the pandemic within these facilities, such as the social and economic condition of the surrounding area, the funding allocated to the nursing home, and the size of the nursing home itself. They also delve into the methodology of their research, their data sources, and the crucial role of considering geographic context in their study. Tune in to learn more about this critical aspect of public health. With special guests: Cynthia M. Lakon, Ph.D, Professor in the Department of Health, Society, and Behavior, University of California - Irvine and John R. Hipp, Ph.D, Professor in the Department of Criminology, Law, and Society, and Sociology, University of California - Irvine

Want to stay updated on the latest in infection prevention and control? Join hosts Nicki Shore and Jessica Swain in the "Science into Practice" podcast brought to you by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology. In their most recent episode, they welcomed Dr. Jose Cadena and Ms. Delvina (Mimi) Ford to talk about their recent research on Hospital-Acquired Candida Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infection amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The guests unraveled their experiences, shared concerning insights on the increased incidence of candidemia due to extended ICU stays during the pandemic, and discussed the shift in species detected and the challenges posed by multidrug-resistant strains. Tune in as they dive deeper into the intersection of infection control and COVID-19. Get inspired and find areas for your own research! With special guests: Delvina (Mimi) Ford, MPH, BSN, CIC, CPHQ, CCRN-k, Quality Management Consultant, VISN 17 and Dr. Jose Cadena, MD, Infection Prevention and Control Medical Director, South Texas Veterans Healthcare System